Graduate Curriculum

GRADUATE SCHOOL APPRENTICESHIP

The 2-year 12 unit coursework includes the 7 equipment-based workshops (3 days) previously described as WEEKEND INTENSIVES / Pilates Exercises plus 5 other additional weekends. The first year program opens with Functional / Relational Anatomy and each academic year ends with a series of lectures called Theory and Practice I and II.

This is followed by two weekends of ‘Public-Private’ Sessions. This format of personal mentoring provides a supportive environment with a collegial attitude.

Functional / Relational Anatomy

A review of the skeletal and muscular systems and their integral relationship.
It discusses the nature of bones and soft tissues: joint characteristics, structural alignment, origin/insertion and line-of-pull of muscles, action and function. It provides a context for observing posture, movement and performance. It exposes students to body mapping, anatomical language, structural constellations and clear concise function.

Theory and Practice I

Theory and Practice I defines a language for speaking about movement and a context for viewing and analyzing it. The course work discusses the art of teaching and the principles underlying the Pilates Method as viewed from the standpoint of functional anatomy, biomechanics and kinesiology. The legitimizing science defines the deep “core” centering provided by intrinsic organization. The previously outlined “Blueprint for a Highly Functioning Body” is further expanded and refined. Additional material addresses client interaction, decorum, assessment protocols and modalities to promote learning through neuromuscular activity and awareness.

Theory and Practice II

Theory and Practice II provides expanded information in the form of guest lectures by medical professionals and scholars in the field of movement science as well as additional required readings. Common problems, anomalies and pathologies are identified along with strategies to address them using Pilates equipment and exercises. The required readings provide information on the subjects of spinal deviations and mechanics, the nature of pain, and neuromuscular repatterining.

The lectures include:

• Lumbo-Pelvic Dynamics and Dysfunction
• The Reflexes and Developmental Patterns
• The Development of the Nervous System and the Evolutionary Roots of Movement
• The Biomechanics of Gait and Characteristics of the Foot and Ankle

"Public-Private" Sessions

Coursework is accompanied by 2 weekends of structured observations in the ‘Public-Private’ Session format. Individual private sessions conducted by seasoned professionals are observed for the fine-points of effective teaching and client/ instructor relationship. These structured observations round out the program as apprentices both witness and participate in private lessons. Apprentices physically embody the art of teaching through their own experience of change and observe transformation of function in others with effective cueing.

Testing

Academic and practical testing is rigorous in a supportive atmosphere. There is an extensive gross anatomy test along with written essays, research papers, lesson plans, and practicums. Private lessons are required for personal growth and the embodiment of principles and theories.

Academic Calendar